Half-elf Jie, pre-teen analytical genius Tian, and Yuna are on a mission in China’s slums to assassinate a Triad boss. The boss might know of the existence of the Black Lotus clan, their goals, and tactics. There are two unexpected obstacles, a serial killer is on the loose, and Yuna recognizes her birthplace and family.
The story continues from where the first book, Thorn of the Night Blossoms, left off. A murdered lord, a half-elf who despite having unnatural abilities does not have the gift of analysis, and a fantastical world which merges the old with the new.
Jie is a half-elf assassin working in a house of ill repute to gather information for her clan, the Black Lotus. Jie is loyal, stubborn, but her overconfidence seems to be her downfall.
Lilian’s talents are poising, sensuality, and poetry. She can get information out of anyone, and have them thank her for the pleasure. Lilian’s mission is an important warlord, but she is also in the crosshairs, as well as other clan sisters. Together Jie and Lilian must test their loyalties.